Alumni put their stamp on University Campus Barnsley

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University Campus Barnsley (UCB) Art and Design Alumni network, Nar/Then, have found a home within UCB for their artwork.

Nar/Then is a collective of artists comprised of over 50 UCB Art and Design graduates. The group was formed by former students Michael Steer and Billy Parker as a network for the artists which allows them the opportunity to contribute to the local art scene in Barnsley.

For the group’s first project the Nar/Then members were challenged to create a piece that reflects their own art practice, with the added complexity that it must fit within the dimensions of a postage stamp. 18 artists submitted artwork for the project and these pieces were then placed together in a single frame to create one work of art entitled First Class.

“When it came to discussing a permanent home for the piece, UCB seemed to be the obvious choice.”

First Class was initially displayed at the South Yorkshire Open Art Show but has now made its way back to sit in pride of place within the entrance hall of UCB, a part of Barnsley College.

Michael Steer, 33, of Wombwell, said: “When it came to discussing a permanent home for the piece, UCB seemed to be the obvious choice as it’s the one thing all of the artists have in common. At the moment we are only at the beginning of our journey but have a few projects in the works. We’re hoping to develop the group further, growing our numbers and exhibiting more work.”

Evan Wood, HE Curriculum Coordinator for Art and Design, added: “We are delighted that our graduates have formed the Nar/Then artists group and continue to create artwork together. We are extremely proud to be able to exhibit their work within our campus and wish the group all the luck in their future endeavors. We look forward to seeing what they produce next!”